Reaching Balance

Impact of Falls

Prevention of falls and falls injury in older persons is a major public health issue. It is the leading cause of disability, declining quality of life and death in older persons.

In as many as 1000 people (aged 65 years and older) die each year from accidental falls in Australia, according to a report from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. In 1998 there were over 45,000 hospitalisations due to fall related injuries. The cost of health services for falls that year has been estimated at $804 million.

The expected change in demographics and trend in fall injury profiles will continue to increase the demand for services and double health costs due to falls.

Preventing falls

Falls prevention is about eliminating or reducing the risk of physical and psychological harm associated with falls in older people. It is also about providing older people with information about how to stay healthy, active, independent and on their feet.